Birmingham recruitment firm owner James White, 26, who has posted a picture of himself bare-chested, said: “Intimidation is what motivates me. I want to be bigger and more successful than anyone else.”

Other competitors include a fashion publicist, a florist and London confectionery firm owner Sarah Lynn, 35, who compared women to tea bags.

Also battling it out in the show, which kicks off with a burger-selling task, is Bolton construction company owner Michaela Wain, 33, who said: “I have no patience for people who say stupid stuff.”

Below are the 18 hopefuls wanting to get their hands on Lord Sugar's £250,000 investment.